Discover the 100 Most Iconic Ice Creams* of the World

In every corner of the world, you’ll find a delightful symphony of frozen treats, an array of creamy concoctions spun into existence by passionate artisans.

Frozen desserts, in their myriad forms, are a universal language of delight. Gelato, ice cream, and dondurma all offer unique takes on frozen desserts; gelato boasts a dense, creamy texture and intense flavors due to its slow churning process and low fat content, ice cream is known for its higher fat content and airy, creamy texture, while dondurma, a Turkish delight, distinguishes itself with a stretchy, chewy consistency attributed to the addition of mastic and salep.

Each variety, while sharing a common love for the cold, presents unique characteristics, shaped by regional ingredients, techniques, and cultural influences.

This list presents the 100 most iconic gelaterias and ice cream parlors that have left an indelible mark on the global dessert scene. It encompasses establishments that have honed their craft sometimes even over a century, serving time-honored flavors like chocolate and pistachio, or inventive combinations like ricotta and pear, sesame seeds and rice.

Join us as we navigate the intricate world of these frosty delights, unpacking the essence of each type and the maestros behind them. Welcome to our curated tour of global flavors, textures, and traditions.

ITALY 🇮🇹

Gelateria Vivoli

Florence, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 1929
Most iconic flavor: Crema

Gelateria Vivoli has been a significant presence in Italy's gelato scene for almost a century. The most iconic among many of their flavors is crema, boasting a rich, velvety texture and decadent creaminess that distinguishes it from other variations. The Vivoli family continues to run the gelateria, adhering to traditional gelato-making methods that enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Gelateria Badiani

Florence, Italy 🇮🇹 
Founded in: 1932
Most iconic flavor: Bountalenti

Gelateria Badiani, founded in 1932 in Florence, is an acclaimed gelateria with a history of crafting premium gelato. Their iconic flavor, buontalenti (named after the 16th-century Florentine architect Bernardo Buontalenti, who is said to have invented gelato), is a deliciously creamy custard-based gelato that has won numerous awards.

Gelateria la Carraia

Florence, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 1990
Most iconic flavor: Ricotta and pear

Gelateria la Carraia boasts a picturesque location by the Arno river, and their gelato is recognized for its creaminess and quality. Their standout flavor is ricotta and pear, a perfect balance of creamy ricotta cheese and the fresh sweetness of pear, which provides a unique and decadent gelato experience. Located near the iconic Ponte alla Carraia, the gelateria has become a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike.

Gelateria dei Neri

Florence, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 1989
Most iconic flavor: Ricotta and fig

A family-run gelateria, Gelateria dei Neri offers an impressive assortment of flavors, the most sought-after being ricotta and fig, which beautifully combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the natural sweetness and texture of ripe figs. Known for their generous servings and creative combinations, they've been a staple in Florence for many years.

Perché No!...

Florence, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 1939
Most iconic flavor: Sesame seeds

Perché No!... has been serving high-quality, all-natural gelato since 1939. Its name translates to "Why not!", which perfectly encapsulates the Italian la dolce vita lifestyle. The most iconic and unique flavor is the sesame seeds ice cream, which offers a delightful blend of nuttiness and creaminess. Perché No!... is committed to using high-quality, seasonal ingredients, and their gelato is handmade daily to ensure the freshest, most flavorful product.

La Romana

Rimini, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 1947
Most iconic flavor: Bacio di dama

La Romana, with its vintage decor, brings you back to post-war Italy. They source their milk daily and make their gelato bases every morning to ensure the freshness and quality of their products. Their delectable bacio di dama gelato flavor is inspired by the famous eponymous Italian biscuit and features a harmonious blend of chocolate and hazelnut. Their old-fashioned approach to service, offering whipped cream on top or bottom of your gelato, is a memorable touch.

Giolitti

Rome, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 1900
Most iconic flavor: Rice

Giolitti, one of the oldest gelaterias in Rome, offers a wide range of quality flavors, with rice being one of the most unique and popular ones. Giolitti's rice ice cream is made with carefully selected ingredients, including premium quality rice and a perfect balance of sweetness. It offers a unique texture and taste that is both satisfying and refreshing. With its historical charm and top-notch gelato, it's a must-visit location in Rome.

Fatamorgana

Rome, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 2003
Most iconic flavor: Chocolate

This gelateria is celebrated for its wide variety of unique and adventurous flavors, all made without additives or artificial ingredients. Fatamorgana has helped redefine what gelato can be, especially in regard to various combinations with chocolate (mint, tobacco, hazelnut, etc.), made using premium quality cocoa, carefully selected for its depth of flavor and smoothness.

Frigidarium

Rome, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 1988
Most iconic flavor: Frigidarium

Frigidarium is named after the signature flavor (or the other way around), which is a rich and creamy caramel and gianduia concoction with cookie chunks. The gelateria is known for dipping the gelato in a chocolate shell upon request, giving an additional layer of indulgence.

Gelateria dei Gracchi

Rome, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 1999
Most iconic flavor: Pistachio

Gelateria dei Gracchi is an institution in the heart of Rome that has been serving some of the city's best gelato for over two decades. Their most iconic flavor is pistachio, celebrated for its rich, creamy texture with big chunks of nuts, a testament to the shop's commitment to premium, natural ingredients. The owner, Alberto Manassei, is a stickler for quality and authenticity, and this passion shines through in the exceptional flavor profiles and consistency of his gelato.

Gelateria Valentino

Rome, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 1947
Most iconic flavor: Dark chocolate

Situated close to the renowned Trevi Fountain, Gelateria Valentino provides both locals and tourists with a delightful respite, serving up mouth-watering gelato amidst bustling city life. Among its extensive range of flavors, the dark chocolate gelato is particularly renowned, loved for its intense cocoa flavor and velvety texture. 

Gelateria del Teatro

Rome, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 2006
Most iconic flavor: Rosemary

Known for its fresh, high-quality ingredients and beautiful location near the Teatro di Pompeo, Gelateria del Teatro prides itself on some of the best fruit and herb flavors in Rome, rosemary being the most iconic one. The shop sources fresh, high-quality ingredients, many of which are displayed in the front window, showcasing their commitment to authenticity. A unique aspect of Gelateria del Teatro is that visitors can see the gelato being made right in the shop.

Gelateria Della Palma

Rome, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 1978
Most iconic flavor: Chocolate

Established in 1978, Gelateria Della Palma in Rome is famed for offering an astonishing array of gelato flavors, over 150 of them! While it might be hard to pinpoint a single iconic flavor amidst such variety, gelato aficionados agree that their chocolate is one of the best in Rome.

Gelateria Old Bridge

Rome, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 1984
Most iconic flavor: Ricotta and pistachio

Gelateria Old Bridge was founded in Rome in 1984 and has since been a mainstay in the city's vibrant gelato scene. Their iconic flavor is ricotta and pistachio, a divine blend of creamy ricotta cheese with the subtle, nutty sweetness of pistachio. The gelateria, located near the Vatican, has become a popular stop for both tourists and locals, thanks to its high-quality gelato and convenient location.

Gelateria Fassi

Rome, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 1880
Most iconic flavor: Crema Fassi

Gelateria Fassi is a renowned gelateria in Rome, with a history dating back to 1880. Fassi's crema gelato is a timeless classic, characterized by its smooth texture, rich flavor, and velvety mouthfeel. It showcases the mastery of Fassi's gelato artisans and their commitment to preserving traditional recipes.

Gelateria Dondoli

San Gimignano, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 1992
Most iconic flavor: Crema di Santa Fina

Gelateria Dondoli, a two-time winner of the Gelato World Championship, is celebrated for its innovative flavors and commitment to using high-quality ingredients, especially famous for its saffron-infused crema di Santa Fina.

La Sorbetteria Castiglione

Bologna, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 1994
Most iconic flavor: Pistachio

La Sorbetteria Castiglione’s location in the historic center of Bologna, along with its reputation for quality, has made it a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike. The gelateria's pistachio gelato is made using the finest Sicilian pistachios, carefully selected for their distinct flavor and texture. The result is a gelato that is both indulgent and satisfying, capturing the essence of this beloved flavor.

Gelateria Galliera 49

Bologna, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 1998
Most iconic flavor: Pistachio

Gelateria Galliera 49 stands out for its commitment to using only fresh and natural ingredients, creating a genuine gelato experience for each customer. Its most famous flavor is the rich and nutty pistachio, celebrated for its smooth texture and authentic taste. 

Gelateria Alaska

Venice, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 1987
Most iconic flavor: Ginger

Gelateria Alaska is off the beaten path in Venice, but well worth the journey for its wide array of distinctive, homemade flavors. The special figure of this hole-in-the-wall was the owner, Carlo Pistacchi (passed away in 2021), who often served customers himself, adding a personal touch to the experience. Their ginger flavor is particularly popular, offering a sharp, refreshing counterpoint to the traditional sweet gelato flavors.

Gelateria Nico

Venice, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 1937
Most iconic flavor: Gianduiotto

Gelateria Nico is a well-known Venetian gelateria located on the popular Dorsoduro district's waterfront, reputed for its artisanal gelato, made with high-quality ingredients. Their gianduiotto, a rich blend of chocolate and hazelnut, is considered an iconic flavor. This flavor is a tribute to the traditional Italian chocolate of the same name from Piedmont, renowned for its creamy, nutty sweetness.

Gelateria Pepino

Turin, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 1884
Most iconic offering: Pinguino

Gelateria Pepino holds a significant place in gelato history, being the first to patent the Pinguino (a chocolate-covered gelato treat) in 1939 – a predecessor to the modern ice cream bar. Located in the heart of Turin, the gelateria maintains the charm of the old days while offering a wide array of flavors. Their Pinguino is still a crowd favorite, showcasing the richness of their chocolate and the creaminess of their gelato. 

Gelateria Telesio

Turin, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 1991
Most iconic flavor: Pistachio

Gelateria Telesio was founded in Turin in 1991 and has since developed a reputation for its high-quality gelato, especially its renowned pistachio flavor. The pistachio gelato is a pure delight, made using only the finest pistachios. The consistency and balance of flavors in their gelato highlight the expertise and care put into each batch.

Gelateria Marghera

Milan, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 1979
Most iconic flavor: Pistachio

Serving the city of Milan for decades, Gelateria Marghera is a staple in the community. Their pistachio flavor is a perfect blend of creamy and sweet, a must-try for any gelato lover.

Il Massimo del Gelato

Milan, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 2001
Most iconic flavor: Pistachio

Located in Milan, Il Massimo del Gelato is a renowned gelateria celebrated for its luxurious and dense gelato. Their pistachio flavor stands out particularly for its extraordinary richness and authenticity, satisfying even the most discerning gelato aficionados. The owner, Massimo Gatti, ensures the highest quality by sourcing top-notch, often exotic ingredients and employing traditional gelato-making techniques.

Gelateria Gabriele

Vico Equense, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 1968
Most iconic offering: Delizia al limone

Gelateria Gabriele in the small seaside town of Vico Equense is famous for their delizia al limone gelato, a refreshing ice cream served with limoncello cream, that encapsulates the taste of an Italian summer. The use of local ingredients, including lemons from the nearby Amalfi coast, elevates the quality of their sweet treats.

Don Peppinu

Catania, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 1960
Most iconic flavor: Salted pistachio

Don Peppinu in Catania has made a name for itself with its remarkable gelato offerings, particularly the salted pistachio flavor, which uses Sicily's renowned pistachios to great effect. With its charming atmosphere and wide range of delectable flavors, it serves as a delightful stop on any Sicilian itinerary. 

Gelateria Cesare

Reggio di Calabria, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 1918
Most iconic flavor: Bergamot

Located in Reggio di Calabria, Gelateria Cesare is famed for its distinctive bergamot gelato, a flavor that captures the region's unique taste profiles. The bergamot, a citrus fruit local to the region, lends a tantalizing freshness to their gelato, a characteristic that has earned it a loyal following. The gelateria prides itself on honoring Italian traditions for over a century, combining them with a dedication to using only the best, freshest ingredients.

Gelateria i Giardini di Marzo

Varazze, Italy 🇮🇹
Founded in: 1996
Most iconic flavor: Lemon and basil

Situated on the picturesque coast of Varazze, Gelateria i Giardini di Marzo is a beloved local institution, serving generations of locals and tourists since its foundation in 1996. Its iconic flavor is lemon and basil, a creamy, rich gelato that emphasizes zesty lemon with mellow basil, creating an unparalleled taste sensation.

UNITED STATES 🇺🇸

Angelo Brocato

New Orleans, USA 🇺🇸
Founded in: 1905
Most iconic flavor: Amaretto

Angelo Brocato, a historic gelateria founded in New Orleans in 1905, has been delighting customers with its classic Italian gelato for over a century. The standout is amaretto flavor, a creamy blend of sweet almond and a hint of bitterness. Started by Italian immigrant Angelo Brocato, this gelateria has carried on his legacy of authentic Italian dessert-making through the generations, maintaining a cherished place in the heart of New Orleans' culinary scene. 

Fentons Creamery

Oakland, USA 🇺🇸
Founded in: 1894
Most iconic flavor: Rocky Road

Fentons Creamery was established in 1894, making it one of the oldest continually operating ice cream parlors in the United States. Fentons is well-known for its homemade ice cream, particularly its Rocky Road flavor. In fact, Fentons claims to be the birthplace of the Rocky Road flavor, which is a delightful combination of chocolate ice cream, marshmallows, and toasted almonds.

Swensen's

San Francisco, USA 🇺🇸
Founded in: 1948
Most iconic flavor: Swiss orange chip

Swensen's Ice Cream was established in 1948 in San Francisco by Earle Swensen, and is known for its old-fashioned charm and nostalgic ambiance that takes you back to simpler times. Their most iconic flavor is perhaps Swiss orange chip, a vibrant combination of rich chocolate ice cream infused with refreshing orange flavor and studded with chocolate chips.

Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop

San Francisco, USA 🇺🇸
Founded in: 1966
Most iconic offering: Chocolate sundae

Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop, an offshoot of the renowned Ghirardelli Chocolate Company, has been serving rich, delectable ice cream creations since 1966. Their iconic chocolate sundae is a testament to their long-standing legacy in chocolate making. It features creamy, house-made vanilla ice cream doused in warm, velvety Ghirardelli chocolate sauce. The sundae is then topped with whipped cream, chopped almonds, and a cherry, providing a classic dessert experience that is both luxurious and nostalgic.

Mitchell's

San Francisco, USA 🇺🇸
Founded in: 1953
Most iconic flavor: Lucuma

Mitchell's Ice Cream, established in 1953 in San Francisco, has been charming the hearts of locals and tourists alike with its fantastic flavors and quality. Their lucuma flavor, inspired by the Peruvian fruit of the same name, is a standout offering. The lucuma fruit is often referred to as the "Gold of the Incas," and its sweet, custard-like flavor translates wonderfully into ice cream, offering an exotic and unique taste that draws both locals and tourists alike.

Toscanini's

Cambridge, USA 🇺🇸
Founded in: 1981
Most iconic flavor: B3

Toscanini's is much more than just an ice cream shop; it's an integral part of the Cambridge community. Known for their creative and unique flavors, Toscanini's has become a beloved local institution and a must-visit destination for anyone in the area. Their most iconic flavor is the B3 - a delightful combination of brown sugar, brown butter, and chunks of fudgy brownies.

Margie's Candies

Chicago, USA 🇺🇸
Founded in: 1921
Most iconic offering: Turtle sundae

Margie's Candies is a historic ice cream parlor and candy store located in Chicago, established in 1921 by a Greek immigrant named Peter George Poulos. Their most iconic offering is arguably the turtle sundae, a mouthwatering blend of rich ice cream, hot fudge, caramel, whipped cream, and a cherry, all served in their signature white clamshell dish.

Leopold's

Savannah, USA 🇺🇸
Founded in: 1919
Most iconic flavor: Tutti frutti

Leopold's Ice Cream is an iconic ice cream parlor located in Savannah, with their most iconic flavor being tutti frutti, a flavorful blend of rum ice cream with candied fruit and fresh roasted Georgia pecans. This particular flavor is said to have inspired the song "Tutti Frutti" by Little Richard, a famous musician who used to live in Savannah.

Moomers Homemade Ice Cream

Traverse City, USA 🇺🇸
Founded in: 1998
Most iconic offering: Cherries Moobilee

Moomers Homemade Ice Cream is a family-owned ice cream shop located in Traverse City, known for their Cherries Moobilee that combines black cherry ice cream with chocolate fudge swirl, cherries, and brownie pieces.  In 2008, Moomers was recognized by Good Morning America and USA Today as the best ice cream place in America, a testament to its exceptional quality and taste.

Fosselman's

Alhambra, USA 🇺🇸
Founded in: 1919
Most iconic flavor: Taro

Fosselman's Ice Cream Co. is a well-loved ice cream shop located in Alhambra, established in 1919 by Christian Anthony Fosselman. Their iconic flavor is taro, a unique and delicious flavor that is hard to find in most traditional ice cream parlors. It showcases the innovative and diverse offerings that Fosselman's provides to its customers.

Chinatown Ice Cream Factory

New York City, USA 🇺🇸
Founded in: 1978
Most iconic flavor: Lychee

Chinatown Ice Cream Factory is a celebrated ice cream shop located in the heart of Chinatown in New York City. Though it offers traditional flavors like vanilla, it's renowned for its more exotic offerings. Most iconic is by far their lychee, a sweet, slightly floral flavor that is representative of the Asian-inspired tastes the shop is known for.

Richardson's Ice Cream

Middleton, USA 🇺🇸
Founded in: 1952
Most iconic flavor: Black raspberry

Richardson's Ice Cream is a cherished ice cream parlor located in Middleton, Massachusetts, with their ice cream being made on-site using milk and cream from their own herd of Jersey and Holstein cows, ensuring a freshness and quality that's hard to match. One of their most iconic flavors is their homemade black raspberry ice cream, known for its rich and authentic fruity flavor.

Ted Drewes Frozen Custard

St. Louis, USA 🇺🇸
Founded in: 1929
Most iconic offering: Concrete

Ted Drewes Frozen Custard is a renowned frozen custard stand located in St. Louis, opened in 1929, and famous for its high-quality, rich, and creamy frozen custard, served in a variety of sundaes, concretes, and shakes. One of their most iconic offerings is the Concrete, a blend of creamy vanilla frozen custard and mix-ins so thick that it's served upside down.

Graeter's

Cincinnati, USA 🇺🇸
Founded in: 1870
Most iconic flavor: Black raspberry chip

Graeter's is a classic ice cream shop that was established in Cincinnati in 1870. Over the years, it has developed a reputation for producing high-quality, artisanal ice cream using a traditional French pot process. One of their most iconic flavors is their black raspberry chip, which blends rich, dark raspberry ice cream with huge chocolate chips.

McConnell's Fine Ice Creams

Santa Barbara, USA 🇺🇸
Founded in: 1949
Most iconic flavor: Earl Grey tea & shortbread cookies

McConnell's Fine Ice Creams, a renowned ice cream shop, was established in the scenic city of Santa Barbara, California, in 1949. One of McConnell's iconic flavors is Earl Grey tea & shortbread cookies. This unique and delicious flavor consists of creamy ice cream infused with the citrusy notes of Earl Grey tea and studded with pieces of house-made shortbread cookies.

Honey Hut Ice Cream

Cleveland, USA 🇺🇸
Founded in: 1974
Most iconic flavor: Honey pecan

The success of Honey Hut is due in large part to their commitment to using high-quality ingredients and their secret family recipe, which includes honey as a sweetener. In that regard, their iconic honey pecan ice cream flavor is an absolute crowd-pleaser. This flavor combines the sweet and aromatic taste of honey with the crunchiness of roasted pecans, providing a perfectly balanced and indulgent treat.

Salt & Straw

Portland, USA 🇺🇸
Founded in: 2011
Most iconic flavor: Pear and blue cheese

Salt & Straw is an artisanal ice cream company that is celebrated for its creative flavors and commitment to using high-quality, local ingredients. Their iconic pear and blue cheese flavor perfectly encapsulates Salt & Straw's innovative approach to ice cream. This flavor combines sweet, juicy pears sourced from Oregon with a rich, tangy blue cheese from Rogue Creamery, an award-winning local cheesemaker. It's a surprising combination that delights with its balance of sweetness, tartness, and savory notes.

The Franklin Fountain

Philadelphia, USA 🇺🇸
Founded in: 2004
Most iconic flavor: Honeycomb

This charming shop, reminiscent of the old-fashioned soda shops of the past, is adorned with vintage fixtures and period decorations, with staff members wearing old-fashioned attire, adding to the nostalgic ambiance. The Franklin Fountain's most iconic flavor is honeycomb ice cream. This ice cream is made using local honey, which is then combined with their creamy ice cream base to create a sweet and delicious treat that customers can't resist.

Big Dipper Ice Cream

Missoula, USA 🇺🇸
Founded in: 1995
Most iconic flavor: Huckleberry

Big Dipper Ice Cream has a casual, friendly atmosphere with a real emphasis on community, which is evident from the crowds that often line up down the block. Their most iconic flavor is huckleberry, a flavor that perfectly encapsulates the Montana experience as huckleberries are a local favorite and are foraged in the nearby mountain regions. The huckleberry ice cream at Big Dipper is known for its vibrant purple color and its perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.

Sebastian Joe's

Minneapolis, USA 🇺🇸
Founded in: 1984
Most iconic flavor: Pothole

Sebastian Joe's is a beloved family-owned ice cream shop located in Minneapolis. The shop's iconic flavor is the Pothole. A rich, indulgent treat, Pothole is a luxurious blend of chocolate ice cream studded with chunks of Heath Bar, swirls of fudge, and a ribbon of sea salt caramel. This unique and flavorful concoction has become a signature item that both locals and tourists seek out.

Handel's Homemade Ice Cream

Youngstown, USA 🇺🇸
Founded in: 1945
Most iconic flavor: Butter pecan

Handel's Homemade Ice Cream, founded in 1945 in Youngstown, Ohio, is known for its high-quality ingredients and exceptional flavors, crafted fresh on the premises every day. Their butter pecan ice cream is one of the standout flavors that has earned a cult following. It combines rich, buttery ice cream with perfectly roasted and salted pecans, creating a delightful balance of texture and flavor that has been lauded by customers and critics alike.

Page's

Pittsburgh, USA 🇺🇸
Founded in: 1951
Most iconic offering: Vanilla soft serve

Page's Dairy Mart is a beloved ice cream shop located in Pittsburgh. Founded in 1951, it has become a local institution known for its iconic vanilla soft serve ice cream. The shop offers a wide variety of flavors, including chocolate, twist, and seasonal fruits, providing a nostalgic and delicious treat for ice cream enthusiasts of all ages.

ARGENTINA 🇦🇷

Heladería Cadore

Buenos Aires, Argentina 🇦🇷
Founded in: 1957
Most iconic flavor: Dulce de leche

Heladería Cadore was established in Buenos Aires in 1957 by the Olivotti family, who brought their traditional Italian gelato-making techniques when they emigrated to Argentina. Their most iconic flavor is the dulce de leche, a rich caramel ice cream with chocolate chips that perfectly combines Italian technique with a beloved Argentine flavor.

Rapanui

Bariloche, Argentina 🇦🇷
Founded in: 1948
Most iconic flavor: Chocolate

Rapanui, established in 1948 in Bariloche, is an Argentinian ice cream parlor that has gained fame for its extraordinary gelato. Their most iconic flavor is the chocolate in numerous combinations, an indulgent blend of chocolate and local ingredients that reflect the flavors of the Patagonia region. Rapanui is much more than a gelateria; it is also a renowned chocolatier, confectionery, and coffee shop, providing a comprehensive sensory experience for anyone who walks through its doors.

Heladería Scannapieco

Buenos Aires, Argentina 🇦🇷
Founded in: 1938
Most iconic flavor: Dulce de leche

Heladería Scannapieco is a historic ice cream shop founded in 1938 in Buenos Aires by Italian immigrants, the Scannapieco family. The shop's iconic flavor is the dulce de leche, a rich, creamy caramel ice cream with chocolate chips. 

AUSTRALIA 🇦🇺

Gelato Messina

Sydney, Australia 🇦🇺
Founded in: 2002
Most iconic flavor: Salted caramel and white chocolate

Gelato Messina is renowned for its inventive approach to gelato while still respecting traditional Italian techniques. Their signature salted caramel and white chocolate flavor offers a delightful balance of sweet and salty, showcasing their ability to combine flavors in an exciting way. Committed to quality, Gelato Messina makes all their gelato in-house from scratch, ensuring control over every element of their product.

Cow and the Moon

Sydney, Australia 🇦🇺
Founded in: 2011
Most iconic flavor: Mandorla affogato

Cow and the Moon's shop is warm and inviting, with a rustic yet modern ambiance that welcomes patrons in for gelato, coffee, and pastries. Their iconic flavor is the mandorla affogato, an almond-affogato-flavored gelato that won them the title of World's Best Gelato at the Gelato World Tour in Rimini in 2014. This international recognition bolstered the shop's popularity, leading to long queues of both locals and tourists eager to sample their award-winning flavor.

AUSTRIA 🇦🇹

Zanoni & Zanoni

Vienna, Austria 🇦🇹
Founded in: 1971
Most iconic flavor: Hazelnut

Situated in the heart of Vienna, Zanoni & Zanoni attracts a diverse crowd from locals seeking a sweet treat to tourists wanting to sample authentic Italian gelato. The gelateria is known for its extensive variety of flavors, and its commitment to crafting each gelato using high-quality, natural ingredients, and hazelnut flavor is the most iconic one.

Eissalon Tichy

Vienna, Austria 🇦🇹
Founded in: 1952
Most iconic flavor: Hazelnut

Situated in the bustling Reumannplatz, Eissalon Tichy is more than just an ice cream shop. Its distinctive retro exterior sets it apart, transforming it into a charming landmark that has watched over the neighborhood for generations. Their iconic hazelnut ice cream is an absolute crowd-pleaser. Renowned for its rich, creamy texture and the robust, nutty flavor of premium hazelnuts, it perfectly embodies the craftsmanship that Eissalon Tichy puts into each of their creations.

BRAZIL 🇧🇷

Sorveteria Cairu

Belém, Brazil 🇧🇷
Founded in: 1964
Most iconic flavor: Açaí

Sorveteria Cairu is more than just an ice cream parlor; it's a symbol of regional pride and an ambassador of Amazonian flavors to both locals and visitors alike. Their ice creams stand out for the use of native Amazonian fruits, showcasing the unique flavors of the region. One of their most iconic ice cream flavors is açaí, which is well-loved for its rich, distinctive flavor that perfectly balances sweetness and tartness.

Sorveteria da Ribeira

Salvador, Brazil 🇧🇷
Founded in: 1931
Most iconic flavor: Tapioca

Sorveteria da Ribeira is nestled in a scenic area of Salvador, making it a popular stop for both locals and tourists. The shop boasts a variety of ice cream flavors that include not only common tastes but also exotic Brazilian fruits, and their most iconic flavor is tapioca - made using authentic tapioca flour and blended with creamy gelato, resulting in a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

CANADA 🇨🇦

Ed's Real Scoop

Toronto, Canada 🇨🇦
Founded in: 2000
Most iconic flavor: Burnt marshmallow

Ed's Real Scoop was founded by Ed Francis in Toronto in the year 2000 and has since grown to be a beloved local institution. The shop's most iconic gelato flavor is the burnt marshmallow, a delightful twist on a campfire classic that has captured the hearts of Toronto's dessert lovers. The shop is known for using only the finest ingredients and making everything in-house, which ensures a fresh and flavorful product. 

COWS

Cavendish, Canada 🇨🇦
Founded in: 1983
Most iconic flavor: Wowie Cowie

COWS Cavendish Boardwalk is not just an ice cream shop, it's an experience. Its whimsical cow-themed decor and friendly atmosphere make it a must-visit location in the area. The brand's most iconic flavor is Wowie Cowie, a delightful mix of vanilla ice cream, toffee, chocolate bits, and Moo Crunch.

La Casa Gelato

Vancouver, Canada 🇨🇦
Founded in: 1982
Most iconic flavor: Durian

La Casa Gelato was founded in Vancouver in 1982, and its vibrant and lively atmosphere perfectly mirrors the colorful and diverse selection of flavors on offer. Its most iconic flavor is hard to pinpoint due to the astonishing variety available - the shop boasts a staggering selection of 238 flavors on-site, out of 588 total flavors they've created. However, their durian flavor, made from the controversial "king of fruits", stands out due to its distinct taste and daring appeal.

Le Bilboquet

Montreal, Canada 🇨🇦
Founded in: 1983
Most iconic flavor: Mango sorbet

Le Bilboquet started as a small ice cream parlor in Outremont, and due to its immense popularity and the quality of its products, it quickly became a city favorite. The shop is particularly known for its fruit sorbets, especially the Mango sorbet, made from natural ingredients without any artificial flavors or colors.

ENGLAND 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

Morelli's Gelato

Broadstairs, England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿
Founded in: 1932
Most iconic flavor: Pistachio

Morelli's Gelato is a legendary ice cream parlor situated in Broadstairs. It was founded in 1932 by the Morelli family, who had been in the ice cream business since 1907. Their pistachio flavor is particularly iconic, famous for its rich, nutty taste and creamy texture, perfectly encapsulating the authentic Italian gelato experience.

S. Jelbert's

Newlyn, England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿
Founded in: 1947
Most iconic flavor: Vanilla

S. Jelbert's is an iconic ice cream shop located in Newlyn, that has been serving its delightful ice cream for decades. At Jelbert's, they keep things simple, focusing on quality rather than variety. The shop only serves vanilla ice cream but offers a choice of clotted cream and a homemade chocolate flake on top.

FRANCE 🇫🇷

Pozzetto Gelato

Paris, France 🇫🇷
Founded in: 2005
Most iconic flavor: Fior di latte

While not in Italy, Pozzetto Gelato Caffè in Paris has made a name for itself since its establishment in 2005 for serving authentic Italian gelato in the heart of France's capital. Their signature fior di latte flavor is a simple yet divine concoction that celebrates the creaminess and richness of milk. Pozzetto prides itself on crafting artisanal gelato, making no more than 12 flavors a day to ensure the quality and freshness of each batch.

Berthillon

Paris, France 🇫🇷
Founded in: 1954
Most iconic flavor: Wild strawberry

Berthillon is a Parisian institution renowned for its high-quality, artisanal ice cream and sorbets. The iconic flavor from Berthillon is arguably their wild strawberry (fraise des Bois), a refreshing treat that captures the essence of sun-ripened strawberries. Made with natural ingredients and an insistence on quality, the flavors are vibrant and incredibly satisfying.

Fenocchio

Nice, France 🇫🇷
Founded in: 1966
Most iconic flavor: Lavender

Fenocchio, situated in the heart of old Nice, has been delighting patrons with its artisanal ice creams and sorbets since it opened in 1966. The family-run establishment is well known for its extensive selection of over 100 unique and exotic flavors, with lavender being the most iconic one. The ice cream is a delicate purple color and has a sweet floral flavor, making it a truly unique treat that pairs well with the Mediterranean spirit of the place.

GERMANY 🇩🇪

Eis Fontanella

Mannheim, Germany 🇩🇪
Founded in: 1906
Most iconic offering: Spaghetti Eis

Eis Fontanella in Mannheim has been churning up delicious ice cream for more than a century. Their claim to fame was created in 1969 and was dubbed Spaghetti Eis - a vanilla ice cream concoction resembling spaghetti, in a "sauce" made of pureed strawberries sprinkled with grated white chocolate. Particularly popular with children, it is still their most recognizable and sought-after delicacy.

GREECE 🇬🇷

Papagirogis

Corfu, Greece 🇬🇷
Founded in: 1924
Most iconic flavor: Dark chocolate

Papagirogis is a century-old institution of Corfu City, especially popular for their delicious ice creams, pastries, and other desserts. With the range of over 60 flavors, the one that stands out is definitely dark chocolate, made with rich, locally sourced ingredients, offering a deeply satisfying experience for chocolate lovers.

HUNGARY 🇭🇺

Gelarto Rosa

Budapest, Hungary 🇭🇺
Founded in: 2005
Most iconic flavor: White chocolate with lavander

Based in Budapest, Gelarto Rosa opened its doors in 2005 and has quickly gained popularity for its unique approach to presenting gelato. Their most iconic flavor may be white chocolate with lavender, but their signature is the artful presentation – they are known for crafting gelato cones in the shape of a rose, adding a delightful visual element to the dessert experience. 

INDIA 🇮🇳

K. Rustom & Co.

Mumbai, India 🇮🇳
Founded in: 1953
Most iconic offering: Mango ice cream sandwich

K. Rustom & Co., a renowned ice cream shop, was established in Mumbai in 1953, and is known far and wide for its ice cream sandwiches - slabs of flavorful ice cream sandwiched between thin wafers. The mango flavor ice cream sandwich is crowd favorite, appreciated for its creamy texture and subtle sweetness.

Pabba's

Mangaluru, India 🇮🇳
Founded in: 1975
Most iconic flavor: Gadbad

Pabba's is a popular ice cream shop known for its vibrant and flavorful creations, and one of their iconic offerings is the gadbad ice cream. This unique and indulgent flavor combines various ice cream flavors, fruits, nuts, and syrups, resulting in a delightful and visually appealing treat.

Naturals Ice Cream

Mumbai, India 🇮🇳
Founded in: 1984
Most iconic flavor: Tender coconut

Naturals Ice Cream is famous for its commitment to using only fresh fruits and natural ingredients in their ice creams, with no artificial flavors or preservatives. Their most iconic flavor is tender coconut, a uniquely tropical treat that uses fresh coconut meat in a creamy ice cream base. This flavor is adored by locals and tourists alike, embodying the refreshing taste of the coastal city.

Apsara Ice Creams

Mumbai, India 🇮🇳
Founded in: 1971
Most iconic flavor: Guava

Apsara Ice Creams, established in 1971 in Mumbai, is well-loved for its eclectic mix of flavors and consistent quality. Guava, a tropical fruit with a unique sweet-tart flavor profile, is Apsara's signature ice cream flavor. The guava ice cream is celebrated for its authentic taste, with small chunks of guava fruit and a hint of spice mimicking the way the fruit is traditionally eaten in India.

Corner House

Bengaluru, India 🇮🇳
Founded in: 1982
Most iconic flavor: Death by chocolate

Corner House Ice Cream, founded in 1982, is one of the most beloved dessert destinations in Bengaluru. The most iconic offering at Corner House is the death by chocolate, which is not so much an ice cream flavor as it is an indulgent sundae layered with cake, ice cream, chocolate sauce, nuts, and topped with a cherry. The richness and depth of chocolate used in this dessert have made it a city-wide favorite.

INDONESIA 🇮🇩

Ragusa Es Italia

Jakarta, Indonesia 🇮🇩
Founded in: 1932
Most iconic offering: Spaghetti ice cream

Ragusa Es Italia is an iconic ice cream parlour in Jakarta, established in 1932 by Italian brothers Luigi and Vicenzo Ragusa, making it one of the oldest ice cream brands in the country. Its iconic ice cream offering is the spaghetti ice cream, which is vanilla, chocolate, strawberry or durian ice cream pressed through a machine to resemble spaghetti, topped with strawberry sauce and nuts to give the appearance of a plate of pasta.

Zangrandi Ice Cream

Surabaya, Indonesia 🇮🇩
Founded in: 1930
Most iconic flavor: Tutti frutti

Zangrandi Ice Cream is a well-established and highly respected ice cream shop, featuring art deco architecture that dates back to the Dutch colonial era. Their iconic ice cream flavor is the tutti frutti, a vibrant medley of fruit flavors that is both refreshing and tantalizingly sweet.

IRAN 🇮🇷

Akbar Mashti

Tehran, Iran 🇮🇷
Founded in: 1920
Most iconic flavor: Akbar Mashti

Akbar Mashti Ice Cream is a historic Iranian ice cream shop, famous for its Akbar Mashti. This distinct flavor is a concoction of creamy ice cream mixed with rose water, saffron, and chunks of heavy cream or salep. It is typically studded with pieces of frozen clotted cream and sprinkled with ground pistachios, offering a rich and aromatic taste that is unlike typical Western ice cream.

IRELAND 🇮🇪

Murphy's Ice Cream

Dingle, Ireland  🇮🇪
Founded in: 2000
Most iconic flavor: Dingle sea salt

Murphy's Ice Cream is an integral part of the culinary landscape of Dingle and has become a destination in its own right. Their ice cream is made from scratch using organic milk from Kerry cows, a local breed known for its rich and creamy milk. Their most iconic flavor is Dingle sea salt, a creamy ice cream with a unique salty kick, made using sea salt harvested from Dingle's coastal waters.

JAPAN 🇯🇵

Suzukien

Tokyo, Japan 🇯🇵
Founded in: 1848
Most iconic flavor: Matcha

Suzukien is a unique blend of old and new, combining a long history of traditional tea selling with a modern love for gelato. Their most iconic flavor is undoubtedly the matcha gelato, particularly the No.7, which is touted as the world's richest green tea gelato and is known for its intense, bitter-sweet flavor and deep green color.

Kinotoya Bake

Sapporo, Japan 🇯🇵
Founded in: 1983
Most iconic offering: Hokkaido milk soft serve

Kinotoya Bake is a renowned pastry and ice cream shop based in Sapporo. Their iconic ice cream offering is the Hokkaido milk soft serve, an ultra-smooth and creamy ice cream that exemplifies the purity of Hokkaido dairy. This ice cream is celebrated for its velvety texture and milky richness, a testament to the quality of Hokkaido's well-regarded dairy industry.

MEXICO 🇲🇽

Nevería Roxy

Mexico City, Mexico 🇲🇽
Founded in: 1946
Most iconic flavor: Mamey

Nevería Roxy is an iconic ice cream shop located in Mexico City, first established in 1946, marking it as one of the city's long-standing destinations for sweet treats. Their signature flavor is mamey, a tropical fruit native to Mexico. Mamey ice cream has a distinct, sweet flavor that's creamy and slightly nutty.

MOROCCO 🇲🇦

Oliveri

Casablanca, Morocco 🇲🇦
Founded in: 1950
Most iconic flavor: Nougat

Oliveri Ice Cream, nestled in the heart of vibrant Casablanca, has been a beloved institution since its founding in 1950. The shop's iconic nougat flavor, made with exquisite craftsmanship, boasts a creamy texture with chunks of honey-soaked nougat that transport customers to sweet culinary heaven.

NETHERLANDS 🇳🇱

Monte Pelmo

Amsterdam, Netherlands 🇳🇱
Founded in: 1957
Most iconic flavor: Hazelnut

Despite its humble size, Monte Pelmo has a charming and inviting ambiance, which, combined with their delicious gelato, makes every visit a delightful experience. Their iconic flavor is hazelnut, a delightful blend of creamy gelato infused with the rich, nutty essence of hazelnuts.

NEW ZEALAND 🇳🇿

Giapo

Auckland, New Zealand 🇳🇿
Founded in: 2008
Most iconic flavor: Hokey pokey

Giapo, an innovative ice cream parlor located in Auckland, was established in 2008 by Italian-born gelato chef, Giapo Grazioli, and his wife, Annarosa. Giapo's iconic flavor is the hokey pokey ice cream, which is a distinctive New Zealand flavor with a base of rich vanilla ice cream studded with chunks of crunchy honeycomb toffee.

POLAND 🇵🇱

Lody na Starowiślnej

Kraków, Poland 🇵🇱
Founded in: 1985
Most iconic flavor: Vanilla

Known for its high-quality, homemade ice cream, Lody na Starowiślnej takes pride in using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, resulting in vibrant, natural flavors. While their offer is wide in variety, Lody na Starowiślnej's iconic flavor is arguably their vanilla, appreciated for its creamy, rich taste that perfectly captures the essence of the ingredient.

PORTUGAL 🇵🇹

Santini

Lisbon, Portugal 🇵🇹
Founded in: 1949
Most iconic flavor: Coconut

Santini is a highly regarded ice cream shop based in Lisbon, which was founded in 1949 by Attilio Santini. Their iconic coconut ice cream flavor is loved by both locals and visitors. It has a delightful tropical taste and a creamy texture that brings a bit of the tropical climate to Portugal's capital.

Gelados Conchanata

Lisbon, Portugal 🇵🇹
Founded in: 1948
Most iconic flavor: Nata

Gelados Conchanata is a cherished ice cream parlor located in the Alvalade neighborhood of Lisbon. It was established in 1948 and has since been serving its delightful and refreshing ice creams to locals and tourists alike. The shop's most iconic flavor is nata, a velvety rich ice cream made from cream, which is a perfect representation of the shop's dedication to simple, high-quality ingredients.

PUERTO RICO 🇵🇷

Heladería Lares

Lares, Puerto Rico 🇵🇷
Founded in: 1968
Most iconic flavor: Corn

For over 50 years, Heladería Lares has not been just a place to cool down with a sweet treat, but also a social hub for the local community. Although known for its unique array of ice cream flavors, its corn (maíz) ice cream is notably iconic. This unconventional flavor, blending the natural sweetness of corn with creamy dairy, is a must-try and has become synonymous with the shop's innovative spirit.

SCOTLAND 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

Jannettas Gelateria

St Andrews, Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿
Founded in: 1908
Most iconic flavor: Scottish tablet

Jannettas Gelateria is a family-run business that has been passed down through four generations of the Jannettas family. The business was established by Bennett Jannetta, an Italian immigrant, and the gelateria is still renowned for its Italian roots combined with a uniquely Scottish twist. Their signature flavor, which has gained immense popularity, is their Scottish tablet ice cream. It's a nod to their local heritage, featuring a creamy base with pieces of traditional Scottish tablet (a type of fudge).

SINGAPORE 🇸🇬

Tom's Palette

Singapore 🇸🇬
Founded in: 2005
Most iconic flavor: Salted egg yolk

Located in the city center, Tom's Palette has become renowned for its innovative and eclectic flavor offerings. The shop's dedication to experimentation is reflected in its vast menu, with over 180 flavors developed and rotated since opening. Their most iconic flavor is salted egg yolk, an inventive creation that uniquely combines a popular local ingredient with ice cream. 

SYRIA 🇸🇾

Bakdash

Damascus, Syria 🇸🇾
Founded in: 1895
Most iconic offering: Booza

Bakdash is a renowned ice cream shop located in the Al-Hamidiyah Souq in Damascus. It was established in 1895, making it one of the oldest ice cream shops in the region. The most iconic offering at Bakdash is the traditional Arabic ice cream known as booza. This unique ice cream is characterized by its elastic and stretchy texture, achieved by adding salep and mastic, and is usually flavored with pistachio and rose water.

SPAIN 🇪🇸

Heladería Los Italianos

Granada, Spain 🇪🇸
Founded in: 1936
Most iconic flavor: Cassata

Established in 1936, Heladería Los Italianos is a beloved institution in Granada, renowned for serving Italian-style gelato. Their iconic flavor, cassata, is a delightful mix of different gelato flavors with candied fruits and nuts, representing the gelateria's adherence to traditional Italian gelato-making techniques. Heladería Los Italianos is a family-owned business that's been passed down through generations, which contributes to its authentic, welcoming atmosphere.

Orxateria Sirvent

Barcelona, Spain 🇪🇸
Founded in: 1920
Most iconic flavor: Turron

Orxateria Sirvent is a cherished ice cream and horchata shop located in the heart of Barcelona. One of their most iconic ice cream flavors is turron, inspired by the traditional Spanish candy made from honey, sugar, egg whites, and almonds. This rich and nutty ice cream flavor is a favorite among patrons and perfectly encapsulates the taste of Spain.

Casa Mira

Malaga, Spain 🇪🇸
Founded in: 1890
Most iconic flavor: Turron

Established in 1890, Casa Mira has established a strong reputation for its commitment to quality, using high-quality ingredients in all of its products. Their turron ice cream, inspired by the classic Spanish nougat dessert, is a standout among their diverse selection. Its rich and nutty flavor, combined with creamy ice cream, offers a unique taste experience that draws both locals and tourists.

TÜRKIYE 🇹🇷

Meşhur Dondurmacı Ali Usta

Istanbul, Türkiye 🇹🇷
Founded in: 1969
Most iconic flavor: Pistachio dondurma

Meşhur Dondurmacı Ali Usta is a renowned ice cream parlor located in Istanbul founded in 1969, making it one of the oldest establishments in the city serving traditional Turkish ice cream, also known as dondurma. Their iconic flavor is the pistachio, known for its creamy texture and rich, nutty flavor.

Mado

Istanbul, Türkiye 🇹🇷
Founded in: 1850
Most iconic flavor: Pistachio dondurma

Mado initially began as a small bakery in the city of Kahramanmaraş, before evolving into the beloved ice cream and dessert store that it is today. The intense, nutty flavor of pistachio is a favorite among patrons and contributes to the ice cream's rich and distinct taste.

VENEZUELA 🇻🇪 

Heladería Coromoto

Mérida, Venezuela 🇻🇪
Founded in: 1980
Most iconic flavor: Black bean

Heladería Coromoto is an ice cream shop based in Mérida, that was founded in 1980 by Manuel da Silva Oliveira. The shop holds a Guinness World Record for offering the most flavors - over 800 - so picking one iconic flavor is challenging, but their black bean ice cream is one of the most iconic and unconventional offerings. This savory-sweet concoction takes inspiration from the traditional usage of black beans in Venezuelan cuisine, turning the familiar ingredient into an unexpectedly delightful frozen treat.

VIETNAM 🇻🇳

Kem Tràng Tiền

Hanoi, Vietnam 🇻🇳
Founded in: 1958
Most iconic flavor: Coconut

Kem Tràng Tiền holds a special place in the hearts of Hanoians, embodying a sense of nostalgia and history in the fast-paced, bustling city. The parlor is famous for its traditional method of making ice cream, using old French machinery, which gives the dessert a distinctive, dense texture. While the parlor offers a variety of flavors, one of their most iconic is the coconut ice cream, known for its creamy texture and authentic tropical taste.